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Explosive Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SCA UXO Tech III (deploy to Guam)

Centreville, VA · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Individuals must be appropriately licensed for the class of vehicle being operated. (f) Transport military munitions, commercial explosives, and MDEH that meets the criteria in Paragraphs 2.2.b.(1)(a ...

Under the direction of the Operations Team Lead and/or general supervision, the operator technician ... Daily work near chemicals that are hazardous and explosive. You should be proficient in: * High ...

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Showing results 1-20

Explosive Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$22

$36

How much do explosive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive operator in Virginia is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Explosive Operators?

Explosive Operators are skilled workers responsible for handling, preparing, and detonating explosives used in various industries, such as mining, construction, demolition, and military applications. They follow strict safety protocols to ensure the safe storage, transportation, and use of explosive materials. Their duties often include assembling charges, setting up blasting equipment, and monitoring blasts to minimize risks to people, property, and the environment. Extensive training and adherence to legal regulations are essential requirements for this job. Explosive Operators must also be detail-oriented and capable of working in high-pressure, potentially hazardous situations.

What is the difference between Explosive Operator vs Blasting Technician?

AspectExplosive OperatorBlasting Technician
Required CertificationsExplosive License, Safety TrainingExplosive License, Safety Training
Work EnvironmentConstruction, Mining, Demolition sitesMining, Quarrying, Construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction firmsMining companies, quarry operators
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Explosive Operators and Blasting Technicians both handle explosives in construction and mining environments, requiring similar certifications and safety training. While Explosive Operators often oversee the entire blasting process, Blasting Technicians typically assist with setup and monitoring. Both roles are essential for safe and effective blasting operations within the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Explosive Operators and how are they addressed in the workplace?

Explosive Operators often face challenges related to maintaining strict safety protocols, managing stress in high-risk environments, and ensuring precise handling of materials. To address these challenges, workplaces provide thorough safety training, enforce rigorous procedural checklists, and encourage open communication within tightly coordinated teams. Regular drills, mental health support, and ongoing education are also common practices to help operators stay prepared and confident while minimizing risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Explosive Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Explosive Operator, you need a solid understanding of explosives handling, safety regulations, and hazardous materials protocols, often supported by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with detonation equipment, safety gear, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Keen attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, precise, and efficient handling of explosives, minimizing risks to people and property.
What are popular job titles related to Explosive Operator jobs in Virginia? For Explosive Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Explosive Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,519 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) Field Supervisor

Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) Field Supervisor

Allied Universal

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,529 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 109 rated security


Job description

Overview

Company Overview:

Advance your career in security with Allied Universal Enhanced Protection Services, the global leader in security and threat mitigation. Following the acquisition of MSA Security in 2021, we became the world's largest non-governmental canine detection company. Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for those passionate about canine security. Join our innovative team committed to excellence in the security industry and make a meaningful impact. Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel managers.

Job Description

Our canine group under, Allied Universal Enhanced Protection Services, is hiring a Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) Field Supervisor . The Field Supervisor is responsible and accountable for the good order of the work force as it relates to client expectations, the public, and the best business practices of the canine group. The Field Supervisor will also be responsible for managing the duties, performance, and relations of EDC Handlers.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provide input into the development of employee standards of performances and conduct as well as post standard operating procedures
  • Work directly with clients, assess client satisfaction; identify areas of concern, initiate corrective actions, and raise appropriate issues to senior management attention
  • Work directly with client management and personnel to help meet the obligations of our contract, ensure MSA compliance, and maintain positive customer relationships
  • Utilize best-practice industry knowledge, combined with career-experience, to train and retrain team members
  • Assess and recommend discipline for Handlers on their team, up to and including termination of employment
  • Provide input into the development of employee Standards of Performance and Conduct as well as Post Standard Operating Procedures
  • Coordinate successfully with other MSA departments to ensure reliable operations
  • Implement and enforces employee Standards of Performance and Conduct
  • Implement and supervise the execution of Post Standard Operating Procedures, inclusive of client specific requirements and companywide business practices
  • Review post orders and other details of assignments with employees; ensure understanding and clarify misunderstandings
  • Coach, discipline, and provide balanced feedback to personnel as appropriate; meet personally with employees and document coaching and disciplinary actions
  • Monitor actions of subordinates to ensure attentive, courteous, and professional behavior toward client representatives, fellow employees, visitors, and the public
  • Ensure widest dissemination and understanding of employees Standard of Performance and Conduct
  • Serve as the direct representative of the MSA Security Leadership and Management team to the field, and relay and enforce operational decisions and intent
  • Conduct initial inquiry and investigations into allegations of the employee misconduct or SOP violations.
  • Recommend policies and procedures for maximizing efficiency, effectiveness, safety, and overall performance in meeting client's expectations
  • Interview, select, and perform ongoing training to ensure success of new hires
  • Complete administrative paperwork as required, and maintain records, forms, and reports as necessary
  • Coordinate successfully with other MSA departments to ensure reliable operations

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School diploma or GED equivalency
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, security license and/or other licensing and credentialing as required
  • Certification as a TSA regulated 3PK9 certified EDC Team, or ability to obtain such certification
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience with civilian law enforcement or military explosive detection handler
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience as an MSA Explosive Detection Canine Handler
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Publisher)
  • Be able to interact professionally with all levels of employees and clients
  • Excellent time management skills; ability to balance multiple competing tasks in a time compressed environment while generating quality results
  • Other:
  • Possess adequate living environment to allow for the proper exercise and training of the canine
  • Have access to reliable transportation sufficient to allow the safe transportation of the canine to and from work
  • Willingness and ability to be available for incident/emergency response duty, standby duty, and client demonstrations, which includes various days and hours

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Service in Military Occupational Specialty related to law enforcement, security (such as Military Police, Elite Military Forces, combat arms) or any support role in a Combat Zone
  • Prior civilian or military K9 handler experience
  • Completion of a full military handler course
  • Bachelor's degree in law enforcement or criminal justice related studies
  • A minimum of 8 or more years of service in any military branch

BENEFITS:

  • Medical, dental, vision, basic life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • Paid time off offered at an accrual rate of 1 hour per 25 hours worked on a weekly basis
  • Eight paid holidays (subject to eligibility)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee discounts through our perks program to your favorite restaurants, entertainment venues, and much more!

SALARY: $78,000 - $82,000 Annually

Closing

Allied Universal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com

If you have difficulty using the online system and require an alternate method to apply or require an accommodation, please contact our local Human Resources department. To find an office near you, please visit: www.aus.com/offices.

Requisition ID2026-1634409Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Allied Universal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Allied Universal® is a leading security and facility services company. We provide proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology to deliver evolving, tailored solutions that allow our clients to focus on their core business. Our excellence starts with our local leadership and local presence. Operating in more than 90 countries, our global workforce of approximately 800,000 people. Employees help to deliver our promise globally and locally: keeping people safe so our customers and communities can thrive. As we build the world's best services company, we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure on a global and local level. In North America, we operate our business under the existing Allied Universal brand, and our international business operates under the G4S brand.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services, chemical manufacturing and real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US